Tell President Obama: Young people demand a plan to end violence in schools!

President Obama is developing a plan to make sure a tragedy like Newtown never happens again.

We know he’s hearing from politicians, gun rights groups and others. We want him to hear directly from young people. We’re the people most affected by violence in schools.

Watch our video: “California teens demand a plan to end violence.” Then sign the petition demanding a real plan to make schools violence-free.

A real plan doesn’t begin and end with more gun control and more armed guards. People with guns on the steps of our schools don’t make us feel safer. The answer to guns isn’t more guns.

A real plan to keep schools violence-free includes what WE need—Counselors. Mentors. School health centers. After-school programs.

We’re ready to help the President develop real solutions. The more young people can be at the table, the more effective the solutions will be. Sign the petition right now and stand with the young people in this video.

Letter to

President of the United States

As you develop your plan to rid schools and communities of gun violence, please listen to young people. We make up the vast majority of people in schools.

Please watch this video: “California teens demand a plan to end violence:" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTfpVlaZjvU

We want our schools to be safe.

Too many of us know violence. 14 young people are killed every day.

Some think armed security and metal detectors are the answer.

People with guns on the steps of our schools don’t make us feel safer.

The answer to guns isn’t more guns.

In fact, armed security in schools often means more of us are charged with crimes. They get involved in conflicts that used to be solved by a trip to the principal’s office.

Don’t turn our schools into fortresses

Armed security should be the last line of defense.

The first line of defense is what WE need:A counselor in every school. A mentor for every kid. An end to bullying and support for kids who are bullied. A health center on every campus. When we mess up or have problems, give us support.

Don’t just kick us out of school.

Let’s take a common sense approach to school discipline.

Schools need to be emotionally safe too. Places where everyone can express themselves. And explore their individuality.

And our schools won’t be safe until our communities are safe. Communities need more places to turn for mental health and support services.

We’re ready to help you develop real solutions. The more young people can be at the table, the more effective the solutions will be. We stand with the young people in this video.